Term: Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System

Pronunciation: (brest IH-muh-jing reh-port-ing ... SIS-tem)

Description:

A reporting system used to describe the results of a mammogram, breast ultrasound, or breast MRI in a standard way. The Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System ranks the test findings according to one of seven categories, ranging from normal or benign (not cancer) to highly suspicious or malignant (cancer). Each category includes follow-up recommendations to help manage a person’s care. For mammograms, the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System includes four additional categories that describe the level of breast density seen, ranging from little or no dense tissue to very dense tissue. Also called BI-RADS.